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She’s got Big Hair and even Bigger Dreams!

Directed by Steffon Sampson

about the show

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Music: Marc Shaiman
Lyrics: Marc Shaiman & Scott Wittman
Book: Mark O'Donnell & Thomas Meehan
Based on: Hairspray (1988 film) by John Waters

Hairspray is a high-energy musical set in 1962 Baltimore, following the story of Tracy Turnblad, a big-haired, big-hearted teenager who dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show. Despite societal expectations, Tracy’s talent and determination earn her a spot on the show, making her an overnight sensation. However, she quickly realizes that the show—like much of society—is segregated, and she sets out to fight for integration alongside her friends.

 

With the support of her quirky parents, Edna and Wilbur, her best friend Penny, and the charming Link Larkin, Tracy takes on TV producer Velma Von Tussle and her snobby daughter, Amber, to prove that everyone deserves a chance to shine—regardless of size, shape, or race. Packed with infectious songs and dazzling dance numbers, Hairspray is a joyous celebration of acceptance, inclusion, and the power of change.

AUditions

Open to Performers Ages 12 and older.​

Online Submissions

February 16th - 27th​

  • 1-minute video showcasing range and personality. Songs from Hairspray are welcomed.

  • While not required, a brief introduction or statement about your interest in the role is appreciated.

​Auditions & Callbacks
February 28th​ | 6 PM - 9 PM

Chase Park House, Waterbury, CT.​​

Cast Descriptions

We seek a large, all-ages cast to bring this vibrant production to life.

Below are key roles with suggested age ranges:

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  • Tracy Turnblad (15-20): Our story's unsuspecting protagonist, she is large and in charge. Confident, talented, and incredibly determined. A romantic with a good heart and desire to cut up the dance floor. Always on top of the latest trends. Mezzo-Soprano.

  • Edna Turnblad (30-50): Tracy's loving and supportive mother, played by a man in drag. Baritone. 

  • Wilbur Turnblad (40-60): Tracy's goofy, loving, and encouraging father, who owns the Har-De-Har Hut joke shop and is still madly in love with his wife, Edna. He encourages Tracy to follow her dreams. Baritone. 

  • Penny Pingleton (15-20): Tracy's best friend and dorky sidekick. Not the brightest girl, but she has good intentions. Bursting to get free of her mother's dominating control, she falls for Seaweed with childlike curiosity. Mezzo-Soprano.

  • Link Larkin (15-20): The star heartthrob on Corny Collins' show. He is extremely attractive and talented. Hoping to get his big break with a recording contract, he unexpectedly falls for Tracy. Tenor. 

  • Velma Von Tussle (35-50): The manipulative producer of The Corny Collins Show. Mezzo-Soprano. 

  • Amber Von Tussle (15-20): Velma’s spoiled daughter and Tracy’s rival. Mezzo-Soprano. 

  • Motormouth Maybelle (30-50): A powerhouse R&B singer and civil rights activist. Alto. 

  • Seaweed J. Stubbs (15-20): Tracy's classmate and friend, who is discriminated against due to his skin color. He is cocky but surprisingly lovable. Talented in song and dance. He falls for Penny. Tenor. 

  • Corny Collins (25-35): The charismatic host of the Corny Collins' Show. Good looking and smooth-talking, he is a genuinely nice guy both on and off camera. Tenor.

  • Prudy Pingleton (35-50): Penny’s uptight, overbearing mother. Supporting role.

  • Gym Teacher, Matron, and Others (Varied Ages): Versatile supporting characters with comedic timing. 

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Additional ensemble roles include council members, dancers, and townsfolk ranging from 12 to 70+ years old.

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